It is a complete honor to be inducted into the PIL Hall of Fame. While growing up and playing baseball for a program like Madison HS, I was very aware of the past greats like Rick Wise, Rob Dressler, Jim Officer and Brian Thomas. To be placed on a list alongside these gentleman, and all the other athletes of this caliber, is very humbling and a dream come true.

Successful athletes never reach the mountain peaks they strive for without lots of help. So, first, thank you God for the talent you loaned me. Also, without my parents watching my every step, and without the guidance of some wonderful Madison coaches, particularly Jeff Erdman and Dave Peake, I'm not sure how things would have turned out. Family and coaches taught me discipline, goal setting and humility which are aspects that affect me today not only in sports my life as well.

Now that my playing days are over and I have children of my own, I am fortunate to coach many of their sports teams. Like my parents and the coaches before me, I am trying to instill those same disciplines and life lessons into their lives.